Growing Trinidad Moruga Scorpion Chili in pots

The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion pepper is a striking plant known for its exceptional heat and unique flavor, making it a delightful addition to any garden. Growing these fiery fruits in containers allows for better control over their environment, making it easier to achieve a successful harvest.

Seeds

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These seeds are heirloom, non-GMO, and cultivated in the USA.

You can find the Pepper Joe’s Trinidad Scorpion Pepper Seeds at Amazon

This is my typical procedure when growing from seed:

Tray seeding

Start by filling the cells of your growing tray with a seed-starting mix—a lightweight soil that ensures optimal conditions for seed germination. Place one or two seeds in each cell, pushing them about a quarter-inch deep into the soil.

Grow medium

I prefer using compressed coco coir blocks for germinating seeds, as it provides a reliable and easy-to-use growing medium.

Check Amazon here for latest prices.

I use these easy to use 12 Cell trays for germinating:

You can currently find a 5-pack for $11.99 at Amazon, and check the latest prices and purchase the trays here.

After planting, lightly mist the soil with water using a spray bottle to prevent disturbing the seeds. Cover the tray with a lid to retain humidity, encouraging quicker germination.

A south-facing window is ideal for germination, providing ample light.

LED grow lights are an effective solution for providing light in situations where outdoor growing is not possible or practical.

LED Lighting from Bloom Lume

Bloom Lume’s full-spectrum LED lights deliver sunlight-like illumination, enhancing growth for indoor Trinidad Moruga Scorpion plants. The adjustable brightness, flexible positioning, and customizable timers simplify the support of photosynthesis and overall plant vitality.

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Choosing the Right Container

Select a pot with a capacity of at least 2 gallons to provide ample space for root development. Ensure that your chosen container has drainage holes to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to root rot.

Terracotta

The D’vine Dev Large 10-Inch Terracotta Plant Pot offers a clean, minimalist look for indoor plants. Its handcrafted terracotta material has a smooth matte finish and includes practical features like a drainage hole, matching saucer, and a stainless-steel mesh to keep soil in place. A protective pad prevents scratches on your surfaces. Over 600 users rate it 4.8/5 for quality and design.

Price: $64.99
You can find the D’vine Dev Large 10-Inch Terracotta Plant Pot with Trellis at Amazon.

Corten Steel

Looking to enhance your outdoor space with a touch of modern rustic style? The Veradek Corten Steel Series Cube Planter offers a sleek design made from durable corten steel, which naturally develops a unique rust patina over time. This planter is weather-resistant and UV-resistant, capable of withstanding temperatures from -20 to +120 degrees, so you can enjoy it year-round.

Measuring 22 inches in height, 21 inches in width, and 21 inches in length, it provides ample space for trees, flowers, or tall plants. The planter includes drainage holes with optional plugs and styrofoam insulation to protect your plants in all seasons.

Today, the Veradek Corten Steel Series Cube Planter is priced at $189.99 on Amazon and has a user rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on customer reviews.

Container with trellis

Plastic pots retain moisture and are effective for growing climbing plants, This planter has both self watering and trellis:

Its 44-inch trellis supports vertical growth, while the planter box includes a water reservoir and drainage system to keep soil moist and prevent waterlogging. Made from durable polypropylene, it’s weather-resistant and easy to assemble without tools. The adjustable frame lets you customize the height for different plants, and its portability makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor spaces.

Currently priced at $33.98 (15% off) with a 4.0 out of 5-star rating, you can find the Sunnyglade Raised Garden Bed Planter Box at Amazon.

Soil Composition

These peppers thrive in well-draining soil. A high-quality potting mix enriched with organic matter, such as compost, is ideal. Avoid using garden soil, as it may not provide the necessary drainage and nutrients. Incorporating materials like perlite or cinders at the bottom of the pot can enhance drainage and aeration.

Optimal Planting Depth

When planting seeds or seedlings, position them at a depth approximately twice their diameter. This practice promotes a robust root system, essential for healthy growth.

Effective Watering Practices

Watering is a vital component of successful pepper cultivation. A general guideline is to provide around 3 quarts of water twice a week. However, as the fruit begins to develop, reducing the frequency of watering can intensify the heat of the peppers. Always check the soil moisture; the top inch should feel dry before adding more water.

Watering Schedule Overview

Growth Stage	Recommended Frequency	Water Volume
Seedling	Every 2-3 days	1 quart
Vegetative	Twice a week	3 quarts
Fruiting	Once a week	2 quarts

Temperature Requirements

Ideally, they should be grown in temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). For those in cooler climates, starting seeds indoors in January or February can extend the growing season and improve yield.

Temperature Tolerance Chart

Temperature Range	Impact on Growth
60°F – 70°F (15°C – 21°C)	Slower growth; potential stunting
70°F – 90°F (21°C – 32°C)	Optimal growth and fruiting
Above 90°F (32°C)	Risk of blossom drop; reduced fruit set

Nutrient Management

it’s essential to avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit production. Instead, opt for a balanced fertilizer or one that is higher in potassium and phosphorus during the flowering and fruiting phases.

Fertilization Schedule

Growth Stage	Fertilizer Type	Application Frequency
Seedling	Low-Nitrogen Fertilizer	Every 4 weeks
Vegetative	Balanced Fertilizer	Every 3 weeks
Fruiting	High-Potassium Fertilizer	Every 2 weeks

Ideal Soil Mix

High-quality potting soil is essential for proper drainage, and the addition of compost provides vital nutrients.

Miracle-Gro Indoor Potting Mix is well-suited for cultivating various indoor crops, including Trinidad Moruga Scorpions. It nourishes the plants for up to six months while minimizing the risk of fungus gnats due to its compost-free formulation. Coconut coir enhances water retention and distribution, promoting healthy growth. A 6-quart bag can fill about four 6-inch pots, depending on plant size.

Current price: $6.98 (4.7/5 stars from 22,265 ratings).
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Care

• Water: Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, especially during growth phases.
• Fertilize: Apply a balanced fertilizer periodically to encourage strong growth and fruiting.
• Pest Control: Regular inspections for common pests and diseases, treating organically when necessary.

Harvesting

The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion peppers are ready to be harvested once they are firm and display a vibrant color, typically 70-85 days after planting.

Pepper Strength

The heat of peppers is measured by the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale, which indicates the level of capsaicin, responsible for their spiciness. The Trinidad Moruga Scorpion rates exceptionally high, with SHU levels ranging from 1,200,000 to 2,000,000.

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Chili Pepper Strength Scale

The heat of chili peppers is gauged by the Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) scale, determining the capsaicin level, the spicy compound. From mild to fiery hot peppers, there are various types.

Pepper Name	Scoville Heat Units (SHU)	Heat Level	Common Uses
Bell Pepper	0	None	Salads, stuffing, grilling
Poblano	1,000 – 2,000	Mild	Roasting, sauces, stuffing
Jalapeño	2,500 – 8,000	Mild to Medium	Salsas, pickling, and garnishing
Serrano	10,000 – 23,000	Medium	Spicy salsas, sauces, marinades
Cayenne	30,000 – 50,000	Hot	Spice blends, hot sauces, soups
Thai Chili	50,000 – 100,000	Very Hot	Curries, stir-fries, spicy dishes
Habanero	100,000 – 350,000	Extremely Hot	Hot sauces, marinades, salsas
Ghost Pepper	800,000 – 1,041,427	Super Hot	Extreme hot sauces, chili challenges
Carolina Reaper	1,641,183 – 2,200,000	World’s Hottest	Specialty sauces, extreme challenges

Expert Tips for Successful Cultivation

• Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost date for an earlier harvest.
• Utilize a heat mat to maintain optimal soil temperature for germination.
• Prune plants to enhance air circulation and encourage bushier growth.
• Monitor for pests such as aphids and spider mites, and treat them promptly.
• Consider companion planting with basil or marigolds to deter pests naturally.

Growth Timeline

Growth Phase	Duration	Key Actions
Seedling	0-8 weeks	Ensure consistently moist soil and ample light.
Growth	8-16 weeks	Continuously fertilize and check for pests.
Flowering	16-24 weeks	Enhance blooming, prepare for fruit development.
Fruit Bearing	24+ weeks	Inspect regularly for ripe peppers and harvest often.